Sabastian Sawe breaks silence after world record-breaking race in London Marathon
By Luke Oluoch, April 26, 2026Kenyan Sabastian Sawe has spoken out after his historic feat of becoming the first human being to run an open marathon race in under two hours, following his win on the London Marathon course on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
Speaking to the BBC after the achievement, the elated athlete described the day as a memorable one for him.
“I am feeling good. I am so happy. It is a day to remember for me,” he opened up.
Quizzed on whether he believed he could run a sub-two-hour time and set a new world marathon record, the Kenyan—who had predicted exactly what he just achieved—reckoned he always saw it happening.
Hitting the finishing line
“Yes. We started the race well. Approaching the finish, I was feeling strong. I remember my fellow champions; the lead was so competitive. I think they helped a lot.”
He also reflected on the emotions he battled during the home stretch as he neared the tape with a record in sight.
Sawe had dominated the entirety of the race after the pack slacked off, leaving him alongside Yomif Kejelcha and Ugandan Jacob Kiplimo to battle it out for the ultimate honours.
The Kenyan showed late-race grit to fend off Kejelcha in the final stages and successfully defend his 2025 title in style.
Defying injury to defend title
“Finally reaching the finish line, I saw the time, and I was so excited. I think today shows that there is a first for everyone, and I am so happy. Coming to London for the second time was so important to me, and that’s why I prepared well for it.”
His performance came after a profound revelation regarding his preparation for the race. Ironically, the Kenyan only embarked on his training properly in January 2026 after recovering from a previous injury. It was only in February, following medical advice, that he realized he would be fit enough to return to London. “Finally, what I had done for four months has resulted in a good outcome today.” he added.
To the fans
Sawe also reserved praise for the thousands of supporters across the world who cheered them on. The race was celebrated with several watch parties in both London and Nairobi, Kenya, which erupted in ecstasy following his performance. The Kenyan stated that he shares the moment with all his supporters and the city of London.
“First of all, I want to thank the crowds for cheering us. I think they help a lot, because if it were not for them, you wouldn’t feel so loved. I think they help because their shouting makes you feel happy and strong and keeps you pushing. That is why I can say what I achieved today is not for me alone, but for all of us in London,” he explained.
This monumental feat saw the Kenyan phenom smash the previous world record set by the late Kelvin Kiptum in 2023. redefining the limits of human endurance with a breathtaking victory.